Unbound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865 - Paperback

by Melvin Patrick Ely (Author), Cassandra L. Newby-Alexander (Author), Stephen Rockenbach (Author)

A vital new volume exploring the history of Virginia's free Black population prior to emancipation.

On the eve of the Civil War, around 60,000 Black men, women, and children lived free in the state of Virginia, often alongside enslaved neighbours. This volume is a history documenting the richness and variety of their lives. Although many stayed in Virginia, living, working, and thriving despite serious threats to their lives, some moved north or, further still, across the Atlantic to Liberia. In studying the lives of free Black Virginians prior to emancipation, this volume explores an under-told and inspirational story of Virginia's past.

By delving into collections across the Commonwealth, whether the records of the state or testimonies left by free Black people themselves, this new volume fills a critical gap in our understanding of Virginia's Black history.

Publication accompanies an exhibition at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, June 14, 2025 - April 4, 2027.

Author Biography

Melvin Patrick Elyis the William R. Kenan Jr. Professor of Humanities and Professor of History at the College of William & Mary.

Cassandra L. Newby-Alexander is professor of History and endowed professor of Virginia Black History and Culture and emeritus director of the Joseph Jenkins Roberts Center at Norfolk State University.

Stephen Rockenbach is a professor of History, Interim Chair, Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, and assistant Dean of CHSS for Student Affairs, Virginia State University.

Sabrina G. Watsonis an instructor and doctoral candidate in the Department of History and Philosophy at Virginia State University.

Evanda S. Watts-Martinez is director of Counseling Services and assistant professor of Education at Richard Bland College of William & Mary and Co-Chair of the college's Racial Justice & Equity Task Force.